Bonus Buy Feature: What You Need to Know
The bonus buy feature has become one of the hottest topics in online slots, fundamentally changing how players approach their favorite games. This innovative mechanic allows you to skip the regular gameplay and jump straight to the bonus round for a predetermined price, but understanding when and how to use it can make the difference between smart play and costly mistakes.
What Exactly Is the Bonus Buy Feature?
The bonus buy feature, sometimes called "feature purchase" or "buy bonus," lets you pay a fixed amount to instantly trigger a slot's bonus round. Instead of spinning the reels hoping to land the right scatter symbols, you can purchase direct access to free spins, pick-and-click games, or other special features.
Most bonus buy options cost between 50x to 100x your base bet, though some high-volatility slots can charge up to 1,000x or more. For example, if you're betting $1 per spin, a typical bonus buy might cost $75 to activate the free spins round immediately.
Popular slots at Plangames Casino like those from Pragmatic Play and Big Time Gaming frequently include this feature, giving you instant access to the most exciting parts of the game without the wait.
How Bonus Buy Changes Your Gaming Strategy
When you purchase a bonus round, you're essentially trading guaranteed access for a higher upfront cost. This can be particularly appealing on high-volatility slots where bonus rounds might be rare but potentially very rewarding.
The math behind bonus buy features is carefully calculated by game developers. The cost typically reflects the average value you'd expect from triggering the bonus naturally, meaning you're not getting better odds – just faster access.
Consider games like "Goldie at Oktoberfest Slots" from Mancala Gaming, which offers a Buy Bonus Feature alongside its regular Mystery Treasures and Respin features. The bonus buy option lets you skip straight to the most lucrative parts of the game, but at a premium price.
Smart Bankroll Management with Bonus Buys
Using bonus buy features requires careful bankroll consideration since you're spending significantly more per "spin." If you normally bet $1 per spin with a $100 bankroll, purchasing a $75 bonus round means you're risking three-quarters of your budget on a single feature.
Many experienced players adjust their base bet size when planning to use bonus buys. Instead of your usual $2 spins, you might drop to $0.50 spins to make the bonus purchase more affordable relative to your total bankroll.
The key is treating each bonus buy as a separate gambling decision. Ask yourself: would you be comfortable betting this amount on a single spin? If the answer is no, the bonus buy might be too expensive for your current bankroll.
When Bonus Buy Makes Sense
Bonus buy features work best when you have limited time but want to experience a slot's full potential. Instead of spending 30 minutes trying to trigger free spins naturally, you can jump straight to the action.
This feature also appeals to players who enjoy the bonus rounds but find the base game less engaging. Some slots have relatively simple base gameplay but offer complex, feature-rich bonus rounds that provide most of the entertainment value.
Time-sensitive promotions can make bonus buys more attractive. If you're trying to complete wagering requirements for a welcome bonus or participate in a tournament with a deadline, purchasing bonus rounds can help you play through your balance more quickly.
Understanding the Risks and Rewards
The biggest risk with bonus buy features is the potential for rapid losses. Since you're spending 50x to 100x your normal bet amount, a few disappointing bonus rounds can deplete your bankroll quickly.
However, bonus rounds purchased this way follow the same RTP (Return to Player) percentages as naturally triggered features. You're not getting worse odds, but you are concentrating your risk into fewer, more expensive spins.
Some players find that bonus buy features help them stick to their budget better. Instead of chasing bonus rounds through extended play sessions, they can purchase a specific number of bonus rounds and walk away when finished.
Maximizing Value from Your Bonus Purchases
Before buying any bonus round, familiarize yourself with the slot's paytable and bonus mechanics. Understanding the potential payouts helps you make informed decisions about whether the purchase price offers good value.
Look for slots that offer multiple bonus round types or progressive features within the bonus. Games that can retrigger free spins or include multiplier progression provide better potential value for your bonus buy investment.
Timing your bonus purchases during promotional periods can add extra value. Some casinos offer cashback on losses or bonus credits that can offset the cost of unsuccessful bonus rounds.
Bonus Buy Slots to Try
Check out these exciting slots that feature the bonus buy option:
The bonus buy feature represents a significant evolution in slot design, offering players more control over their gaming experience while requiring more sophisticated bankroll management. Whether you choose to use this feature depends on your playing style, risk tolerance, and gaming goals, but understanding how it works ensures you can make informed decisions that enhance rather than harm your overall casino experience.